There’s no denying the fun and excitement that comes with traveling.
The problem is that not everyone is fond of packing. It’s a challenging task, especially when you know there’s a limit to how much you can bring.
If you struggle to keep your luggage within the weight limit, you’ve probably thought about getting a luggage scale.
Is it worth it? How do digital luggage scales work anyway?
Weighing Your Luggage for Travel
It’s pretty challenging to find an entirely accurate scale, hence the need to weigh your luggage multiple times using different devices.
Before you proceed, take a look at your airline ticket to verify your baggage allowance.
This information varies depending on the airline and your traveling class category, so it’s safer to double-check than assume.
Air travel follows a strict operation schedule that passengers must observe, or else the plane will leave without you.
Here are different ways to weigh your luggage before going to the airport:
Bathroom Scale
Although not reliably accurate, you can use a bathroom scale to weigh your luggage, especially if you don’t have a luggage scale.
To do this, weigh yourself first and take note of your weight before stepping off. Then, pick up the luggage and step on the scale again.
Subtract your weight from the reading when holding the luggage to get its weight. Lastly, put the baggage directly on the weighing scale and compare the results.
Suitcase With Built-in Scale
For convenience, some suitcase brands produce models with built-in scales, making it easier to monitor the weight of your luggage.
It’s less likely for you to have an overweight suitcase with this kind of luggage.
Luggage Scales
There is no need to upgrade to one with a built-in scale for those who already have suitcases at home.
Simply buy an affordable luggage scale and use it to weigh your baggage. You can even attach it to your bag’s handle.
Lift your luggage using the scale and hold it steady for several seconds until the final weight reading appears.
Analog vs. Digital Luggage Scales
Luggage scales come in analog and digital varieties, and most of them are accurate within two pounds.
For analog or manual models, ensure that the scale’s pointer is at zero before you start weighing anything.
Most manual luggage scales have a straightforward design and come with a standard clock hand, rotating clockwise to indicate the weight of your luggage.
On the other hand, digital luggage scales are sleek and stylish.
The weight reading shows in digital number on its light-up display screen.
Digital luggage scales come in a wide range of styles and functions for every user’s preference. Also, they have a lightweight design and are easier to use.
These are the perfect choice for travelers looking for more stylish and functional travel accessories.
How Do Digital Luggage Scales Work?
Digital luggage scales come with a strap and hook where you hang the item you wish to weigh.
After securing the item, you then lift the device, and it will automatically display the reading on the built-in display screen.
To get a more in-depth look into how do digital luggage scales work, here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to using it:
Step 1: Ready the device.
Get your digital luggage scale and insert the batteries as required to turn it on. The initial reading must show 0.00 pounds.
If the scale shows a different reading other than zero, the device may be faulty or need calibration.
Step 2: Set the measurement unit.
Choose the correct unit of measure according to your location or destination.
Fortunately, digital luggage scales offer kilogram and pound options.
Step 3: Secure the bag or luggage.
Luggage scales come with a loop or a hook that you can put around the handle of your bag or suitcase, ensuring its security.
Step 4: Lift.
As you secure the scale’s loop on your bag’s handle, lift it steadily and keep it stable for 10 to 15 seconds to get an accurate reading.
Digital luggage scales come with small LCD screens to display the bag’s final reading.
You will either hear a beep or see flashing numbers indicating the baggage’s weight.
Step 5: Read the results.
Check the final weight result and compare it with your airline’s indicated luggage allowance.
You can repeat the procedure using the same device or weigh it using a body scale to verify.
It may seem a complicated task, but it’s better to do all these things while still at home instead of offloading your luggage at the airport.
Why You Need a Luggage Scale
During travels, it’s a hassle to rearrange your luggage because of overweight issues. Besides, it’s never fun to pay for additional baggage fee.
You can avoid any of these if you weigh your luggage beforehand. Good thing, you can do that at home with a reliable luggage scale.
Here are some reasons why travelers must have a luggage scale handy:
For Overseas Travel
Most digital luggage scales use kilogram and pound as weighing units, making them suitable for international travels.
Also, some international flights have put a weight limit on carry-on bags, and having the luggage scale on hand allows you to check it in real-time.
Reduces Stress
No matter how excited you are to travel, there’s no denying the stress that goes with it. Adding to that are the airlines’ strict regulations about overweight baggage.
Going to the check-in counter with the right luggage weight lessens this stress.
Saves You Time and Money
Staying within the airline’s luggage weight limit prevents you from paying the overweight charges.
Knowing that your luggage is within the weight limit eliminates the hassle of rearranging your things at the airport.
To weigh your luggage at home is a big convenience, not just for you but also for other passengers waiting for their turn.
Useful Accessory
Most luggage scales are small and lightweight, making them easy to stash inside your carry-on bag without taking too much space.
Weigh Before You Go
Having a digital luggage scale lets you weigh your baggage before heading out to the airport, avoiding unnecessary delays.
Most luggage scales can weigh up to 110 pounds or 50 kilograms, so you can walk through check-in with confidence.
Are Digital Luggage Scales Worth It?
Anyone who loves traveling will benefit from owning their own digital luggage scale.
As a practical device you can bring to your trips, you won’t ever have to worry about paying overweight baggage fees again.
Aside from being straightforward to operate, even the best options with add-on features are quite budget-friendly.
